Page:Historical Works of Venerable Bede vol. 2.djvu/188

 116 "Behold, now is the accepted time, now is the day of salvation!" the Lord Jesus, who wishes for all men to be saved, provided a suitable reason for his servant, that so he might arrive here to preach the word of God. It happened that the above-named king, Clovis, was preparing to make war on the Alemanni, who at that time possessed a kingdom by themselves. He did not, however, find them unprepared, as he expected. For they had collected a strong body of men, and met the king on the banks of the Rhine, with a firm determination to protect their country, or cherish in its defence. Both sides fought most valiantly, rushing on death; the one party for glory, the other for their freedom. The king, seeing the enemy fight thus bravely, and his own men almost cut off, began to despair of safety rather than to hope for victory. He had not been born again in Christ, but in this extremity had recourse to his assistance. His Queen, Clotilda, had been baptized, and was a woman of great piety. He accordingly raised his eyes to heaven, and offered up this prayer:—"O God, of singular power and supreme majesty, whom Clotilda acknowledges and worships, grant to me this day victory over mine enemies. For from this day Thou shalt be my only God, the only power I worship. Grant me victory, and I owe to serve  by Thee for ever." Forthwith Divine aid was granted him, the Alemanni were routed, and the Franks obtained the victory.

CHAPTER II.

the wonderful mercy of Almighty God! oh how unspeakable is his goodness! who thus listens to, and